Introduction
A lot has changed when it comes to UK-EU travel ever since Brexit. For instance, the United Kingdom has launched its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Correspondingly, if you’re an EU citizen planning a trip to the UK, then you’re reading the right article. In this guide, we take you through essential information about the UK ETA—from who should get it, how to apply, and its travel implications.
What is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is a digital travel permit for visitors entering the United Kingdom without a visa. Specifically, its design aims to improve border security and streamline entry for short-term visitors.
Much like the U.S. ESTA or the EU’s upcoming ETIAS, it pre-screens travelers before arrival. Similarly, the ETA system checks for security risks and verifies eligibility to enter. Overall, it is part of the UK’s broader border modernization strategy post-Brexit.
Once applicants receive approval, the ETA links electronically to their passport. Accordingly, airline staff or border personnel may deny boarding or entry to travelers without an approved ETA.
The UK is rolling out the system in phases, starting with certain countries. This already includes most non-visa nationals, including EU citizens.
UK ETA & The EU
Citizens from the European Union now fall under the UK’s ETA requirement. This applies to travelers visiting for tourism, business, short study, or transit.
If you’re entering the UK for under six months and don’t need a visa, then you will need an ETA. This includes most EU member states, except where special arrangements apply.
To clarify, you do not need a UK ETA if you:
- Hold a UK visa
- Are a British or Irish citizen
- Are a legal UK resident with a valid residence permit
Also, the ETA does not replace a visa for those who require one under current rules.
How EU Citizens Can Apply
Applying for a UK ETA is quick and done entirely online. Here’s what EU citizens should expect:
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo.
Specifically, it must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page.
Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, the passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
- Contact details
- Home address
- Employment information
- Citizenship information
- Criminal history, if any
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application.
Generally, you can pay using suitable electronic payment methods.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA.
Next, you will receive an e-mail with the decision and the ETA will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, your ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period—or until your passport ex-pires.
Make sure your passport is valid for the entire stay. The ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires.
In addition, you do not need to print anything, as the ETA is automatically linked to your passport. Border officers will scan it on arrival.
Furthermore, mistakes in your application can delay approval. Double-check names, passport numbers, and dates before submitting.
Ready to apply for an ETA via EVS? Then click the button to get started.
Apply NowImpact on Travel for EU Citizens
The UK ETA affects how EU citizens plan travel to Britain. Hence, you’ll need to apply before boarding a flight, ferry, or Eurostar to the UK. Remember that border agents may check your ETA electronically before you reach passport control.
Additionally, this change means extra preparation for short visits. As such, you can’t make spontaneous weekend trips to the UK without applying ahead. However, it doesn’t prevent travel—it just formalizes pre-entry checks.
The good news is that it’s cheaper and easier than applying for a visa. But missing this step could mean being denied boarding. As such, make sure to apply early and confirm approval before departure.
Also, the ETA does not grant work or long-term stay rights. If you’re staying over six months, then you’ll still need a proper UK visa.
Bilateral Agreements or Exemptions
While most EU countries are included in the ETA scheme, there are some exceptions. For instance, Ireland is part of the Common Travel Area (CTA) and remains unaffected. Correspondingly, Irish citizens do not need a UK ETA, and they expect this agreement to continue.
For other EU countries, there are currently no wide-ranging exemptions. However, future bilateral talks could adjust requirements or allow streamlined applications.
Meanwhile, the UK has hinted at tailoring travel arrangements with close European partners. Still, for now, assume the ETA applies unless clearly stated otherwise.
Preparing for Travel to the UK
If you’re an EU citizen planning a UK trip, the ETA is now a vital step. It’s fast, affordable, and mostly hassle-free—but skipping it can derail your plans.
As such, mark it on your travel checklist along with your passport and bookings. Apply early, especially during holidays or busy seasons, to avoid stress. For fast and reliable ETA processing, visit EVS.
Furthermore, this new system changes how Europe and the UK interact—but it doesn’t close doors. Stay informed, follow the rules, and enjoy your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all EU citizens need a UK ETA?
Yes, unless you’re an Irish citizen or hold UK residency. The ETA is required for short visits under six months.
Are there non-EU European countries that need a UK ETA?
Yes. These include Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, and the Vatican City.
How long does approval take?
Most applications are approved within 72 hours. However, some may take longer, so apply early.
Can I apply for an ETA on arrival?
No. The ETA must be approved before you travel to the UK.
Do children need their own ETA?
Yes. Every traveler, regardless of age, must have an individual ETA.
Is the ETA valid for multiple trips?
The UK government has not finalized this. Expect one ETA per visit until confirmed otherwise.
If I’m a dual citizen with a British passport, can I use one passport for my UK ETA and another for entry?
Because your ETA is linked to one passport, no. Hence, you must use the same document for travel and immigration checks.
I’m a dual citizen. Can I apply for an ETA with my second passport if my UK passport is expired?
Yes. But it’s better to renew your UK passport. It must be remembered that using a second passport may require an ETA.
Do transit passengers need ETA if they are passing through the UK?
As of January 2025, the UK has temporarily suspended the requirement for transit passengers.
Hence, if you’re transiting without entering the UK, then you don’t need an ETA. Specifically, this applies if you stay in the international transit zone. But if you pass through UK border control for any reason, even briefly, an ETA becomes mandatory.
Photo by Frederic Köberl on Unsplash
